Celebrating our identity, promoting artistic excellence and generating opportunity.

The commissioning and development of Council’s public arts collection is guided by the Artworks in Public Places Policy adopted in 2002.

Public arts activity is viewed as an indicator of cultural wellbeing, as well as an opportunity to promote Ōtautahi Christchurch as a centre of artistic and cultural excellence, with the potential to stimulate economic activity.

Council is a kaitiaki or guardian of artistic and cultural heritage, and so has a duty to stimulate additions to that heritage while also providing for good management of our cultural assets. In this role, Council also seeks to actively support development of Māori arts and language and to work with mana whenua and mātāwaka in developing a public arts programme reflective of the Treaty partnership.

A variety of art forms contribute to a full and vibrant city. Different cultures in the city are encouraged to participate in and celebrate their distinct art forms and maintain the meaning and history behind their artistic traditions. Council recognises that partnerships with a range of organisations and representatives of the arts community will enhance development of public arts programmes.

In developing the 2002 Artworks in Public Places Policy Council and community sought:

  • A city environment enriched by a variety of works of art in public spaces
  • Recognition of the excellence and achievements of local artists; and
  • The responsible guardianship of the city's cultural assets.